Blowing Dust

Though 2020 had a 'nonsoon,' it did give us a good trial for our innovative new dust detection and warning system on Interstate 10 between Phoenix and Tucson.

Dust storm season will soon be upon us. Do you know what you should do if you encounter one while driving?

Interstate 10 drivers between Eloy and Picacho Peak should expect something very different this summer when storms hit: reduced speed limits, speed feedback signs and new overhead boards that display urgent safety messages.

Building on efforts across the decades, we’re working on a dust detection and warning system on I-10 near the community of Picacho.

PHOENIX – You know not to drive into the towering wall of dust. And if a dust channel whips across a highway and engulfs your vehicle, the mantra “Pull Aside, Stay Alive” can lead you to safety.

Strong winds statewide on Thursday

You have a smartphone, may want a smart car and will soon be introduced to smart highways.

PHOENIX – Drivers should be prepared for blowing dust and reduced visibility along Interstate 10 between Phoenix and Tucson, according to the Arizona Department of Transportation.

The National Weather Service says gusty winds were recorded in the Casa Grande area today and the Department of Public Safety reported areas of blowing dust crossing I-10 southeast of Phoenix.

Dust along portions of I-10 is just one of a number of weather-related issues motorists may encounter across the state due to the third in a series of winter storms in recent days.

At ADOT, our crews remind everyone of the do’s and don’ts of driving through a dust storm with our "Pull Aside, Stay Alive" education campaign. ADOT is doing more than just an education campaign.

The Pull Aside, Stay Alive campaign urges motorists caught in low-visibility blowing dust to pull off the roadway and turn off all vehicle lights. Today's blog explains why.

Meteorologist Paul Panhans recently shared what forecasters look for when predicting blowing dust and where some of the trouble spots are located.

PHOENIX – With trucks spraying water, first responders standing by to close Interstate 10 when conditions warrant, and air quality and agriculture representatives advising the land owner, state agencies are working to reduce the risk from dust blowing off recently plowed farmland in southeastern Arizona. 

PHOENIX – With strong winds in the forecast, especially for Friday, the Arizona Department of Transportation is taking steps to enhance safety on a stretch of Interstate 10 in southeastern Arizona that has seen significant blowing dust. That includes coordinating with the Arizona Department of Public Safety to close the highway when conditions warrant.